MidValleySports.Com

Rosemead continues to march towards Arroyo.

By George Hernandez

(El Monte)- Patrick Lopez rushed for three touchdowns in leading the Rosemead Panthers to a 45-0 victory over the defending Mission Valley League champion El Monte Lions Friday night at El Monte High School.

With leading rusher Alec Zavala suited but not playing, the Panthers turned to Lopez who carried the load with 208-yards to go with the three scores.

Mead quarterback Steven Nava put some of his doubters to rest going 11 of 16 for 223-yards, three touchdowns and one pick.

“We came in with a different offense,” said Nava. “We had a better tempo and came out faster.”

The game started well for the El Monte defense. Luis Diaz recovered a fumble, leading to a nice drive by the Lions but it was stopped on downs.

“Coach (Marc Paramo) asked me to do it and I couldn’t say no,” said Interim HC Matt Koffler after the game. “I’ll do anything for this school, Sunday until now I gave it my all. The kids did good and played real physical.”

*** Lions sophomore QB Edward Dominguez showed a strong arm, going 17 of 36 for 126-yards and an interceptions.

*** El Monte’s “super sophomore” Roy Barrajas compiled 110-yards of total offense.

*** Panthers TE/LB Michael “Gunny” Sahagun not only had another strong game at linebacker he also punished the Lions defense with four receptions for 83-yards and two touchdowns.

*** Mead WR Oscar Noriega also got in on the fun with four catches for 119-yards and a score.

*** Juan Amaya’s interception and Luis Diaz’ fumble recovery were lone bright spots for the El Monte defense.

*** Rosemead’s defense was led by Jonathan Chavez who picked a pass and Enrique Galindo who had two of the teams five sacks.

***Never!”—Matt Koffler said when asked if he will be seen on the sidelines again.

*** El Monte (1-7, 0-3 Mission Valley League) faces View (3-5, 0-3 league) who is averaging 34-points a game to see who stays out the MVL cellar.

*** Rosemead (7-1, 3-0 league) takes on Gabrielino (6-2, 2-1 league). Mead is trying to keep its MVL title hopes alive with a win.